Fin's Fish Guide
The Manetail snake eel (Ophichthus urolophus) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 62 cm.
Asia: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea (South) and others
Description
The manetail snake eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from coastal waters of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 62 cm and has a slender, drab-brown, snake-shaped body with a long, low fin fold and a pointed, hard tail tip. As a bottom-dweller it burrows into sand and mud bottoms and protrudes only its head to snap at small crustaceans and small fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Manetail snake eel?
The Manetail snake eel has a snake-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Manetail snake eel live?
The Manetail snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea (South) and others
How big does the Manetail snake eel get?
The Manetail snake eel grows to a maximum of about 62 cm.
Is the Manetail snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Manetail snake eel is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ophichthus
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Manetail snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Manetail snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.